Staying at Ajax would feel like a slap in the face, says Tottenham target Vertonghen

Jul 5, 2012 11:30:00 AM

The Belgium defender has seen his proposed switch to White Hart Lane drag on over the summer but claims he could move clubs in time for Spurs' first training session on Monday

Tottenham target Jan Vertonghen has admitted that remaining with Ajax would feel like a "slap in the face" after a summer of transfer speculation.

The 25-year-old has long been linked with a move to White Hart Lane but has seen discussions over his proposed switch drag on due to disputes between the two clubs regarding a transfer fee.

Vertonghen insisted that his relationship with the rest of the Ajax squad remains healthy, but reiterated his desire to take up a new challenge.

"The situation is not as I expected," Vertonghen conceded to AT5. "Of course I'm happy with the guys here and the feeling with Ajax is still good. But being here gives me double feelings.

"Staying at Ajax would feel as a slap in the face. Everybody said that I'm ready for the next step. Right now it's a case between the clubs and agents."

Vertonghen re-joined Ajax to prepare for the new season on Monday, but Spurs do not start work under new manager Andre Villas-Boas until next week.

And the 25-year-old looked to push negotiations forward by claiming that he could join Tottenham in time for their first training session ahead of the new campaign.

Vertonghen, who had previously stated that he wanted to enjoy a full pre-season with his new club, added: "That's still possible. They [Tottenham] will have their first training session on Monday.

"I've had no contact yet with the new coach [Villas-Boas]. But with my head I'm still at Ajax. I'm the captain, I won't be a rebel."

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